DOCTORAL
CANDIDATES
Background
My academic and professional journey has been deeply rooted in molecular biology, immunology, and cancer research. I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, where I gained foundational experience in cell biology, genetics, and biochemistry. I also spent a year studying at the University of Pittsburgh, where I further developed my independent research skills. Afterward, I pursued a Master’s degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Germany. Through internships and research projects across renowned institutions, including the Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO) in collaboration with Hospital 12 de Octubre, Roche Pharma, TraslaTUM and the Biomedical center of LMU in Munich, I developed expertise in techniques like flow cytometry, Western blotting, qPCR, and primary samples processing, along with experience in scientific writing, presentation and data analysis. My work across these roles has sharpened my focus on the transformative potential of cell-based therapies and gene editing in oncology and genetic disorders.
Research
Currently, I am undertaking my Ph.D. research at Ospedale San Raffaele, under the guidance of Dr. Raffaela Di Micco and Dr. Anastasia Conti. My project centers on Dyskeratosis Congenita, specifically the X-linked variant (X-DC), which severely impacts hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). My goal is to develop biotechnological tools to model X-DC and gain a mechanistic understanding of HSPC dysfunctions. This research aims to lay the groundwork for innovative gene-editing approaches to address X-DC. During my Master’s research at CNIO-H12O, I contributed to developing a dual CAR-NK cell product to target refractory multiple myeloma, leveraging the simultaneous targeting of CD44v6 and NKG2D-L for higher efficacy in overcoming treatment resistance.
As a scientist, my aspiration goes beyond publications or accolades: if my research can meaningfully improve even a single person's life, I would consider my mission as both a scientist and a person fulfilled. This commitment drives my work in seeking solutions for complex genetic and oncological challenges, fueled by the hope of making a tangible impact on human health.